Springmoor resident and wine aficionado John Riedy has organized three wine tastings on our campus since fall 2023. These events help participants better understand the taste and origins of various wines. In addition to their taste buds, residents learn to use their senses of sight and smell to more fully evaluate and appreciation the wines being presented.
The group discusses each wine before sampling it. Participants are encouraged to “chew” on a small sip to absorb the taste and smell and then take another small sip and savor the flavor. Hors d’oeuvres are provided to cleanse the pallet before sampling the next wine.
Whether they’re beginners or connoisseurs, residents have the opportunity to refine their preferences. John shares interesting information regarding the differences both in wine varietals by type name and the offerings of various vintners around the world. Participants are relishing this opportunity to explore and learn about the differences in a select group of wines.
In wine, the term “varietal” refers to a wine produced primarily from one variety of grapes. For example, two popular red wine varietals are pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon. While each can be enjoyed with a variety of foods, these popular red wines are most often paired with red meats on a dinner menu. With their dark red color, the two varietals may look similar, but tasting both side by side will quickly verify that they have very different characteristics.
In similar manner, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, and sauterne all are white wine varietals. The taste of each is quite different, ranging from dry and crisp to very sweet, leading to preferred pairing with different kinds of food and casual snacks—or even use as a dessert wine.
There also can be significant differences in the taste of the same variety produced by different winery companies or in different countries around the world. Wines bearing the same varietal name but coming from different parts of the world—or even wineries within a few miles of each other—can have very different properties.
Details about each tasting held at the community are included on the Springmoor Resident Portal by date under the “Events” tab. The monthly calendar of events and activities that our Pathways Wellness Department produces also contains all the details about these events.
Our most recent Wine Tasting Social was held in the South Village Terrace Room at the end of June, and registration filled up quickly. The $25 registration fee covers the cost of the selected wines and heavy hors d’oeuvres. In addition to signing up online using the portal, residents may call extension 7700 to register their attendance the day after the event is posted as available.
Bimonthly wine tastings are planned. If residents have questions, John has formed a committee of residents who live in different areas of the community: East Apartments, Houses, and Villas: Judy Tardiff; West Apartments: Sheri Jacks; Creedmoor Apartments: Berry Greene; and Valley, Apartments John Riedy.
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